1. religion and spirituality

FirstNews
The First Unitarian Universalist Society of San Francisco
MONTHLY NEWSLETTER
MARCH 2015
FirstNews
FirstNews is published monthly by
The First Unitarian Universalist Society
of San Francisco, 1187 Franklin St.,
San Francisco, CA 94109-4580.
Questions/Comments: [email protected]
Engaged Religious Living
Rev. John Buehrens, Senior Minister
Our worship theme for the month of March is “engagement.” In his book, Interbeing, Thich Nhat Hanh offers principles for
socially engaged Buddhism. I find them deeply insightful. For example, he begins by saying, “Do not be idolatrous about any
doctrine or ideology.” “Practice nonattachment from views in order to open to others’ viewpoints.” “Through compassionate
dialogue help others renounce narrow-mindedness.” “Find ways to be with those who are suffering.” “Live simply and
share time, energy and material resources with the needy.” “Do not maintain anger or hatred.” “Do not lose yourself in
dispersion.” “Do not utter words that can cause division or condemn things of which you are not sure.” “Do not transform your
community into a political party. A religious community should, however, take a firm stand against oppression and injustice.”
Our congregation has little to apologize for in the breadth, generosity, and earnestness of its social justice work. I have
counted some 37 different causes, groups, partnerships, projects and grantees. We give away hundreds of thousands of
dollars in cash and use of our facilities.
Yet I worry at times about how we pursue our social justice aims. Sometimes I hear more ideology than humility and
compassionate dialogue. Too many efforts lack a sense of ownership by the community as a whole. I have heard needless
aspersions cast on the projects or intentions of others. Our mutual coordination needs improvement lest we lose ourselves
“in dispersion.” And we need to fund our own community better, knowing how much it does in social ministry.
On March 1, we will launch our annual pledge drive for the church operating fund. Which comes first? Our church? Or the
good works that it supports? The chicken or the egg?
On March 8, Rev. Alyson Jacks will preach about the California philosopher who gave Martin Luther King the concept of
“Beloved Community.” Meanwhile, I will be in Selma, AL, for the 50th anniversary of the civil rights campaign there, in which
two UUs gave their lives, and where we helped to catalyze interfaith cooperation. Expect a report on lessons learned.
On Saturday morning, March 14, the Rev. Lindi Ramsden and Mary Helen Doherty will return for Part II of their lively
workshop on “Building Our UUSF Social Justice Ministries.”
Guided by Part I, I appointed a Social Justice Transformation Team to help me oversee processes by which our work can
become more coordinated, spiritually satisfying, and effective. That team will include young adult newcomer Henry
Barmeier, the Rev. JD Benson, David Jones (past Moderator of UUSF and current President of our Society for Community
Work), Robin Larsen (chair of UUs for Peace and Justice); Kat Liu (chair of the UUSF Green Team); Karen Melander-Magoon
(chair of the UU Forum), and Jeff Sprague, educator and RE father.
During March you are invited to a community dinner at someone’s home or the church. It’s a chance to share with a small
group some of your hopes for the renewal of our community. Things are moving in the right direction. Since August the
number of contributing households here has grown from 215 to 259. But we will not be self-sustaining until we are larger
and more generous still. We are now too dependent on reserves, rental income, and our small endowments.
After that, we will not stop building community. We will orchestrate throughout the congregation a campaign of one-onone conversations. It’s a process used in community organizing. To change the world more effectively, we must first be more
what we want to see. Each of us. And all together. I hope you will engage in the work!
Info: Rev. John Buehrens, Senior Minister, 415-776-4580 x132, [email protected]
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Worship Services
Sunday, March 1, 11AM, Sanctuary
THE CHICKEN AND THE EGG
The Rev. Dr. John Buehrens, Senior Minister, preaching
Which comes first? Church community? Or our social justice
mission? The chicken or the egg? We will launch our annual
pledge drive for the UUSF operating budget. Church school
parent Harry Arthur will offer a testimonial. The Choir will
sing.
Sunday, March 8, 11AM, Sanctuary
REHEARSING FOR THE BELOVED COMMUNITY
The Rev. Alyson Jacks, Associate Minister, preaching
In the late 1800’s, American Philosopher, Josiah Royce,
coined the term Beloved Community. To build the beloved
community, according to Royce, requires love, loyalty,
and cooperation, among other things. It also requires
engagement and risk. And it takes practice - lots and lots of
practice.
Royce once said, “Let your community be as a chorus.”
We’ll play with some of the pieces that Royce - and others
- recommend and consider practices for sustaining the
beloved community in our midst. We’ll welcome the
Threshold Choir back to our sanctuary, and enjoy the
blended voices of our church choir. Together, we’ll find the
harmony. Alison Rittger, chair of our Worship Associates, will
give a testimonial.
Sunday, March 15, 11AM, Sanctuary
LIVING INTO OUR LINEAGE
Cindy Pincus, Intern Minister, preaching
Our lives, loves, and churches are made up of lineages of
life! Everything from the rhythm of our Sunday hymns to the
color of our eyes speaks volumes about lineage. Come learn
how to engage with our ancestors’ lineages as we celebrate
the past and prepare for a bright future. John Buehrens will
be preaching for the Unitarian Universalists of Oakland as
they launch a capital campaign. Alex Darr, Outreach Minister
with the Faithful Fools, will give a testimonial.
Sunday, March 22, 11AM, Sanctuary
RESPONSIBLE DISENGAGEMENT
The Rev. Dr. John Buehrens, Senior Minister, preaching
How do we know when it is time to stop engaging with a
particular endeavor, exit responsibly, and celebrate what
has been accomplished, even if the work is not complete? A
sermon both for individual and congregational life. Dr. Phil
Marshall will give a personal testimonial about why UUSF
continues to engage his interest and support.
Sunday, March 29, 11AM, Sanctuary
PREPARING FOR PASSOVER
The Rev. Dr. John Buehrens, Senior Minister, preaching
It has been said that the Exodus story, retold at Passover,
is not only the key to “engaged religion,” but has been
reinterpreted in every social justice movement from Jesus on
Palm Sunday through Marxism to other liberation struggles.
Linda Enger, chair of our 2015 operating fund drive, will give
both a report and a testimonial. There will be a community
lunch for all in the courtyard.
Church After Dark
Services led by Cindy Pincus, Intern Minister
Sunday, March 8, 15, 22, 29, 6:15 PM, Chapel
“We’ve just had two months of celebration and transformation at Church After Dark. January and February brought us lots
of laughter, sweet tears and sighs, delicious bread and honey, and powerful sermons from three different preachers. Our
musicians brought years of talent to grace our sanctuary and lifted our spirits with their voices.
March brings even more goodies our way! We’ll be visited by the Folk Americana duo HeartRoot who will bring their
“sparkling, soul-seducing harmonies and raw joy” and also Marshall Voit who has been a songleader and folk singer in
UU churches for 10 years. We’ve also got a magical line-up of guest preachers who will deepen our understanding of this
month’s theme “Engagement.”
As always, there will be hymns old and new, times for prayer, and a Bread and Honey Communion. We will taking a break on
March 1 (no Church that night!) and will be gathering again at 6:15 PM on March 8, 15, 22, and 29. Can’t wait to see you there!
Contact Intern Minister Cindy Pincus with any questions or comments.”
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Attention Members and Friends!
Info: Rev. JD Benson, Assistant Minister, 415-776-4580 x162, [email protected]
If you are fluent in English and another language would you be willing to share this information with us?
Please get word to Reverend JD Benson who is compiling a list in the event that a need arises for a newcomer, a visitor or
others requesting information or services.
UUSF Community Center Needs YOU
Info: Kerry Parker, Center Facilities Director, 415-776-4580 x202, [email protected]
!
Community Center Events
March-April 2015
!
March 1
Sunday
5:00p Concert:
Young Women’s Choral
Sanctuary
Moira Smiley & Voco
March 6
Friday
7:00p Lecture:
Hameed Ali with CIIS
Sanctuary
Being & Human Being
March 6
Friday
7:00p Lecture:
Poet Robert Adamson
Chapel
SF State Poetry Center
March 14
Saturday
5:00p Wedding:
Alexa & Scott
Sanctuary
Ushering
March 22
Sunday
2:00p Recital :
Melanie Takahashi
Chapel
Studio students
March 23
Monday
7:00p Lecture:
Divaldo Franco
Starr King
Spiritist Society
March 27
Friday
5:00p Lecture:
National Youth Choral
Sanctuary
Festival – Chanticleer
March 28
Saturday
1:00p Concert:
Freundschaft
Sanctuary
Liederkranz Choir
April 3
Friday
8:00p Concert:
Cornell University Choir
Sanctuary
April 4
Saturday
1:00p Performance: SF Shakespeare Camp
Chapel
April 11
Saturday
2:00p Performance: SF Shakespeare
Chapel
April 11
Saturday
4:30p Wedding:
Paige & Scott
Sanctuary
April 16
Thursday
6:30p Meeting:
Audubon Society
Martin Luther King
April 18
Saturday
9:00a Presentations: CIIS
Entire Facility
April 18
Saturday
7:00p Concert:
SF Lyric Chorus
Sanctuary
April 19
Sunday
5:00p Concert:
SF Lyric Chorus
Sanctuary
!
Volunteer to be a host or usher at
community events
Host Guidelines:
¥ Arrive 30 to 60 minutes before
event, check in with Sexton in
charge
¥ Wear Volunteer name tag
¥ Identify yourself to the Event’s
logistics person
¥ Let them know that you’ll be
available as a resource to them to:
o Help direct traffic at front
door
o Give directions to rest rooms
o Be aware of who and where
the Sexton is
¥ Smile! Be personable and helpful
¥ Point out UU literature racks
¥ Observe who is reading the bulletin
boards & invite them to attend
Sunday services
¥ Not necessary to be present for
entire event.
!
Contact: Kerry Parker
Center Facilities Director
[email protected]
415-776-4580 x202
!!
!
First Unitarian Universalist
Community Center
Needs
YOU
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Sunday Forum with Breakfast
Sunday, March 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29, 9:15 AM, MLK Room
March 1, “Waging Peace and Non Violence in Action” with David Hartsough, co-founder of Non-Violent Peaceforce, who has
spent his life as an activist for peace and has recently released his new book, “Waging Peace”, a testament to the difference
one person can make.
March 8, “Labor, Worker’s Rights and the Environment”, with Steve Zeltser, a tireless activist and organizer, who supports
workers and farmers whose lives are affected by environmental changes.
March 15, “The Next Big One: Aizawl, India”, with Tom Tobin, Geo-Hazards International Senior Advisor. Tom has worked on
natural hazards and risk management problems for more than 50 years and possesses technical expertise in geotechnical
and coastal engineering. He is past president of the Earthquake Engineering Research Institute. Prior to joining the staff of
GHI, for which he now acts as consultant, Tom served as executive director of the California Seismic Commission from 19851995.
March 22, “U.S. Movement to Save Palestinian Villages” with Donna Baranski-Walker, Rebuilding Alliance. In West Bank,
149 Palestinian villages are facing demolition. Americans with Rebuilding Alliance work with Al Aqaba Village to build a
kindergarten, sewing co-op, and three new homes. Palestinian & Israeli peacemakers work together to protect at-risk homes.
March 29, “If Americans Knew”, with Alison Weir discussing the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, media coverage of this issue,
and her new book, Against Our Better Judgment: The hidden history of how the US was used to create Israel. Released last
spring, the book has generated considerable interest, with over 10,000 sold so far and over 180 positive customer reviews on
Amazon, the large majority giving it 5 stars.
Minister’s Seminar with Rev. John Buehrens
Sunday, March 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, 9:30 AM, Fireside Room
UNDERSTANDING THE CHRISTIAN SCRIPTURES
An Introduction for Skeptics, Seekers, and Religious Liberals
March 1
Passions: The Teachings and Death of Jesus in Matthew and Luke
March 8
Resurrections: The Four Easter Stories
March 15
Incarnations: The Birth Legends and the Gospel of John
March 22
Salvations: Paul and Rabbinic Judaism
March 29
Revelations: Women, Gnostics, and the Early Church
Contributions of $5 per session will be requested, but not required.
Copies of John’s book, Understanding the Bible, are available for $15.
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Process Theology with Rev. John Buehrens
Wednesday, March 4, 11, 18, 25, 7PM
OMNIPOTENCE AND OTHER THEOLOGICAL MISTAKES
An Introduction to Process Theology and Philosophy
Every stage in the development of liberal religion in America involved making accessible some new and needed pattern
of underlying philosophy. In the era of Channing, it was “Common Sense” philosophy. For the Transcendentalists, it was
Kantian idealism. In the late 19th century, it was evolutionary thinking. In the Progressive Era and the Great Depression it
was humanistic pragmatism. Since World War II, however, says a historian of Unitarian Universalism, opportunity has been
missed: to understand and promote the thought process developed by Alfred North Whitehead and Charles Hartshorne – a
line of spiritual reflection both new to many and needed to undergird efforts at shaping a sustainable society.
John Buehrens will offer an introduction to process theology meeting on four Wednesday evenings: March 4, 11, 18, and 25,
in either the Murdock or Kincaid Room. Contributions of $5 per evening will be requested but not required, covering the cost
of copying printed materials that will be distributed.
Advance registration is requested by going to uusf.org or by calling the church office at 415-776-4580.
March Town Hall Meeting
Sunday, March 1, 12:30 PM, TSK Room
The Board of Trustees has appointed Gayle Reynolds to the Board. Gayle will fill the vacancy created by Kristen Gray’s
resignation last month, and will serve until the Annual Meeting in June.
In other action, Trustees supported the reinvigoration of regular potlucks and other shared meals among members of the
congregation. The Board approved a charge to an updated Community Dinners Committee and the Moderator named
Liz Strand and Stan Hartzell co-chairs of the committee.
The Board also outlined the topics and presentation for the March 1 the Town Hall meeting. The after-church event will
report to the Membership strategic planning accomplishments made so far this year, discuss plans and schedules for
additional work, and gather feedback and additional ideas from the community. The Nominating Committee will be selling
yummy hotdogs with your choice of mustard or ketchup!
Step Up!
Canvass 2015-2016 - Sunday, March 29, Sanctuary
During the month of March, we focus on a campaign to obtain the pledges of financial support needed to
fund the 2015-2016 operating budget for our church. We are definitely “on our way” to becoming a vibrant
and sustainable church community. Now is the time to “step up” our commitments to the future of our
church by making a pledge of financial support. Please plan to attend one of the commUUity gatherings
scheduling during the month of March.
You will enjoy an opportunity to interact with others from the church community, share a meal, and make
your pledge. You can sign up for a gathering in the gallery after the Sunday service or by visiting the Canvass page on our
church website. We will celebrate the success of the canvass together after the worship service on March 29. Please plan to
join us.
For questions, call Linda Enger, 650-591-2930.
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Young Women’s Chorus with Moira Smiley
and her ensemble, VOCO
Sunday, March 1, 5PM, Sanctuary - $10-$30 - Info: 415-312-7787
The internationally recognized composer- vocalist Moira Smiley and her ensemble VOCO are described as “combining the
energy of urban street singing with first-rate musicianship, folk roots and traditions from throughout the world.” (Folkworks
Magazine) Known for her excellence in traditional folk singing, Smiley also lights up the stage with body percussion and warm
wit. Expect magnificent, hair-raising performances – music that mourns, celebrates, and dances at the same time. YWC sings
chant by Hildegard von Bingen, “The Womanly Song of God” by Libby Larsen, and lots of original music and arrangements with
Moira and VOCO.
Unity From Diversity
Sunday, March 1, 6PM, Chapel
Humanists and Non-Theists Potluck and Discussion with with Intern Minister Cindy Pincus.
The Unitarian Universalist movement has long been one of diversity. Values and covenantal community are regarded as
being more important than creeds, even though most individual UUs do have belief systems they hold dear. UUs identify
7 principles that unite us. Since the principles are consistent with both theism and non-theism, we find Non-Theists and
Theists in our congregations. Sunday morning is the time that most of us come together for a common purpose. How can
this experience be meaningful for everyone and contribute to our sense of community? We will dialogue with Cindy Pincus,
our intern minister, on ideas of how best to accomplish this. The chair of the Humanists and Non-Theists, Jim Barnett, and
Cindy will initiate the dialogue by giving their views on inclusive Sunday morning service. Participants will then be invited
to express their views. The dialogue will be moderated by one of our Small Group Ministry. Facilitators to help insure that
everyone’s views are heard.
Our potluck begins at 6PM (please bring something to share if you are able). The discussion begins at 6:30 PM.
Full Moon Service and Celebration
Saturday, March 7, 7PM, Chapel
As we approach the balance point between the dark and light times of the year --the Vernal Equinox-- our Pagan Interest
Circle will meet in the Chapel at 7PM on Saturday, March 7. You may find this gathering the perfect balance between the
word-and-thought-centered ways Unitarian Universalism is usually expressed, and a movement, art, and chant-filled UUism.
We call it our Full Moon Ritual, but apart from certain opening and closing elements, each gathering is very different and
often partly spontaneous. All respectful participants of any age are welcome to our clean and sober, scent-free, and animalfree gathering. Please bring food to share after the ritual. You will be welcomed!
Memorial Service Ed Sheffield
Sunday, March 8, 12:15 PM, Chapel
A Celebration of Life for Edmund “Uncle Ed” Sheffield will be held on Sunday, March 8, at 12:15 PM in our Chapel. Ed
participated in various programs and events in the church especially the Men’s Breakfast Group. Please join us for a
time of reflection upon dear “Uncle Ed”.
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Membership Matters
March 2015
Your Membership Committee is buzzing with activity. We are thrilled to welcome Melanage Matthews and Alesandro
Gagliardi to our team as well as our new Board Liaison, Margaret Pierce.
Here’s what’s happening!
On Sunday, March 8, we’ll hold our second New UU Class. New UU meets in the Dutton Study, 2nd floor of the church office,
from 12:30 PM to 2PM. New UU is recommended to newcomers and new members, but is open to all. The class is a chance
for new folks to meet and bond, share stories, learn some UU history, meet church leadership and ask questions. Registration
is recommended. Please click here. Childcare is provided. Light snacks served.
Our monthly Newcomer Orientation meets in the Murdock Room from 12:30 PM to 1:30 PM, the next one is Sunday, March
1. Hosts Cindy Pincus, Ministerial Intern, and a representative from the Membership Committee will welcome folks, answer
questions and watch a video. If you would like to volunteer to be a co-host with Cindy, please be in touch with Rev. Jacks.
Our next Invitation to Membership is Sunday, April 19 at 12:30 PM in the Stebbins Room. If you are ready to join, please
schedule an appointment with one of our ministers. Rev. Jacks is happy to assist you.
And Membership Recognition and Celebration is Sunday, June 7. There will be a New Member Reception at Rev. Buehrens
home on Saturday, June 6. Watch the Flame and First News for details.
Finally, the Membership Committee is hosting a UUSF booth at some of our neighborhood fairs and festivals. The next
one is the Glen Park Festival on Sunday, April 27. We need volunteers to staff the booth. Volunteers serve as Ambassadors,
welcoming folks, answering questions, and sharing the good news at UUSF. To be part of this welcoming ministry, contact
George Cavage here to sign-up for a two-hour shift. Families are encouraged to join the fun.
Join us!
Someone who truly listens...
Saturday, April 11, 8:30 AM
Register in March with Rev. JD Benson, Assistant Minister, 415-776-4580 x122, [email protected]
...gives a rare and priceless gift and receives one as well. What is required of
us to listen deeply? How do we prepare ourselves? What could it mean to us
to make a practice of deliberate and deep listening? In what ways will this
practice expand our own hearts, transform our relationships, grow who we
are as a community?
Rev. Margot Campbell Gross, Rev. Meg Whitaker-Green and Rev. JD Benson
will lead us in a workshop on Saturday, April 11. Gather at 8:30 AM, begin in
earnest at 9AM, conclude at 12:30 PM.
Open to all church members; pastoral care team members or those
considering it should sign up and participate.
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Living by Heart - A Spiritual Practice
Tuesday, March 10, 7PM, Chapel
Living by Heart - A Spiritual Practice with John Buehrens.
“If you don’t have a personal spiritual practice, you’ll dry up and blow away.” Harry Scholefield once said that. He was the
Minister here for 18 years late in the last century.
He was speaking to a young seminarian, a young single mother named Laurel Hallman. Like Harry, Laurel had a distinguished
career as a UU minister. She led First Unitarian in Dallas into a period of growth both in numbers and civic influence. But she
kept grounded in the spiritual practice that she learned from Harry, and which they both called “Living by Heart.” Toward
the end of his life, Laurel made a short, well-produced film of that title, centered on meetings with Harry and illustrating the
basics and multiple dimensions of this practice.
Unlike some forms of spiritual practice, “Living by Heart” is not about renunciation, nor about shutting out distractions; it is,
in fact, more about welcoming – the day, the stranger, our own thoughts and the inner wisdom that we need to live from the
heart, and not just the head.
Some years ago I went to a retreat, where Laurel taught the practice of “Living by Heart.” It changed my ministry, and my life.
More recently I have begun teaching the practice to others. All that is required to begin is the intention to set aside some
time each day for quiet reflection.
Those who would like to begin the practice will be provided with a workbook for $15. Pairing with a practice partner will be
offered and arranged for mutual encouragement about once a week. The full group will then meet once a month, exploring
how the practice can unfold and made more deeply personal over a whole year.
If you are at all inclined to develop a spiritual practice specifically designed for UUs and others like us – in all our skepticism,
individuality, and need – then I hope that you’ll join us.
Climate Refugees
Friday, March 13, 6:30 PM, MLK Room
Sensible Cinema
We’re on course for sea-level rise of about 3 to 4 feet by mid-21st
century and higher thereafter. This film puts a face on Global Climate
Change bringing the stark reality to the screen like no other has done.
The displacement of human beings brought on by gradual and sudden
disasters becomes evident and gives the viewer a sense of the sheer magnitude and seriousness of this
issue.
Climate Refugees is produced and directed by Michael Nash and filmed and co-produced by John
Hogan. It was filmed over a four-year period. It has won awards at Sundance, Los Angeles, Cannes,
Woods Hole and many other film festivals.
Popcorn and refreshments will be available and admission is free but donations are always appreciated.
Contact Melvin Starks at 415-539-6284 or Larry Danos at 415-722-6480 if you have any questions.
Sensible Cinema is sponsored by UU-UNO & Green Committee in solidarity with UU Commit to Respond
(C2R).
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Building Our UUSF Social Justice Ministries
Saturdays, March 14, 9AM through a closing celebratory lunch
A Workshop with the Rev Lindi Ramsden and Mary Helen Doherty.
The first part of this workshop was full of fun, new ideas, and constructive steps forward. We developed a consensus
around some qualities we would like to see in our overall social justice work. We made suggestions for a Social Justice
Transformation Team to work with Rev. Buehrens. That group is now made up of Henry Barmeier, Rev. JD Benson, David
Jones, Robin Larsen, Karen Melander-Magoon, and Jeff Sprague. The next step needs as many or more people than the 45
who attended in January. So you need not have been present then to help work on understanding how we might better
connect our work in service, education, advocacy, and witness; develop more coordinated strategies; and understand
coalition building and effective tactics. Please join us! The workshop is open to all.
Register by emailing [email protected] or 415-776-4580 x162.
Building A Strong Marriage:
A Group Workshop for Couples
Saturdays, March 14, 28. April 11 and May 2. 9AM - 1PM.
Led by Jeffrey Melcher, M.Div, Prepare and Enrich Counselor
Married, engaged, or in a committed relationship? This workshop can prepare you for a stronger marriage or enrich the one
you are in. Based on a nationally renowned program Prepare-Enrich. Prepare-Enrich counselor Jeffrey Melcher will facilitate a
group workshop with 3-6 couples at UUSF. All genders and sexualities welcome.
This special four double-session class will meet on four Saturdays, 9AM-1PM: March 14 and 28, April 11, and May 2. It
includes:
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An Online Prepare-Enrich inventory for each individual
Four double-sessions in a caring and comfortable atmosphere.
A copy of “Building A Strong Marriage Workbook”
A copy of The Seven Principles of Making Marriage Work by Gottman and Silver
Private half-hour couple check-in session with Jeffrey Melcher, M.Div.
An introduction to EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique)
Basic massage skills
Coffee, tea and light refreshments.
Topics include: Relationship Roles, Family and Couple style-mapping, Active listening and Problem solving, Goal setting,
Partner style and habits, Asking for what you want, Religion and spirituality, Parenting, Stress management, and more
Teacher:
Jeffrey Melcher, M.Div., has led Prepare-Enrich marital conversations at UUSF since 2008 after he graduated from Pacific
School of Religion. Jeffrey is the Director of Religious Education at the UU Congregation of Marin.
Cost:
The fee for this special UUSF group Prepare-Enrich class is $350. ($240 for UUSF members and pledging friends)
Register at uusf.org or by emailing [email protected].
Meetings will be in the Fireside Room except for April 11 which will be in the Murdock Room.
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TENTH ANNUAL MEATOUT LUNCH &
PROGRAM: Love Animals, Love Earth, Love
Life: Go Veg!
Sunday, March 15, 12PM to 3:30 PM, TSK Room
Lauren Ornelas will speak on access to healthy foods in communities of color and low-income groups, in solidarity
with farm workers and on the issue of slavery in the chocolate industry. She is active in the animal rights movement
nationwide. She is founder of the Food Empowerment Project www.foodispower.org and www.veganmexicanfood.com.
Dan Brook, Ph.D., is a long-time veg eater, writer, and activist.
His web site Eco-Eating: Eating as if the Earth Matters is a comprehensive source for all who interested in protecting the
environment and the coming climate changes. His web page is
at http://tiny.cc/ecoeat, while more info about his publications
is available via http://about.me/danbrook.
Register at 12PM. DELICIOUS VEGAN LUNCH served at 12:30 PM which consists of Organic/gluten-free/vegan cuisine with a
Latin touch by El Coqui Creations. From 1:30 PM – 3PM is our FEATURED SPEAKERS & EXCITING RAFFLE!
SUGGESTED DONATION for Lunch is $10
Students and Seniors ~ Sliding Scale ~ Wheelchair Accessible
RSVP (recommended) to [email protected]
or call 415-595-7306.
Sponsors: Unitarian Universalist Animal Ministry & San Francisco Vegetarian Society http://sfvs.org
Humanism In Norway with Even Gran
Sunday, March 15, 1PM, Chapel
Norway is one of the most secular countries in Europe, yet it
has a state church. This status has given the church privileges
with regard to government funding, indoctrination of youth, and political influence. Over the past few decades, the
Norwegian Humanist Association (NHA) has been very active in bringing about changes to make the Norwegian
government more reflective of the secular views of the Norwegian people.
Even will describe the history of Norway that has led to the current situation and ongoing efforts of the NHA to promote
secularization in Norway. The NHA is the largest humanist association in the world. Even will describe how the NHA provides
life passage ceremonies for its members that once were provided by the state church.
Even is a journalist who writes for the magazine of the NHA.
He is residing in the Bay Area while his wife pursues educational opportunities at UC Berkeley.
Sandwiches will be available for purchase. Everyone is welcome!
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Society for Community Work
with Rev. Fred Rabidoux
Tuesday, March 17, 11:15 AM, TSK Room
Rev. Fred Rabidoux will speak on the “GUARDIAN GROUP” which assists refugees and asylum seekers forced to leave their
countries due to threats of imprisonment or death for their
sexual orientation.
Our business meeting begins at 11:15 AM. The mixer at 11:30 AM, then our lunch at 12PM. The program featuring Rev. Fred
Rabidoux begins at 1PM.
Please reserve your seat by Sunday, March 15 at 7PM at [email protected] or call Leslie Bader at 415-821-1307. You
can also register online here.
Stop by our table after Sunday Worship Services for more information. There is a $12 to $15 sliding scale and no one is ever
turned away due to lack of funds. We hope you can join us.
Building and Grounds Work Party
Saturday, March 21, 9AM to 12PM
Come when you can. Stay and work as long as you can. Help make our Building and Grounds clean and beautiful.
Saturday Work parties will held on the third Saturday of each month so that we can keep our building looking good. If you
are unable to join us in March, put April 18 on your calendar!
Many thanks to the February workers including Donald, Anna, Dave, Margaret, Kat, Scott, Theda, Chris, Linda, Mary Jane, and
Katy. Check out the new planting on Franklin St. The boxwoods have been trimmed and sprayed. The garden area along Starr
King has been weeded, trash removed, raked, and swept. We will need to do it again next month.
Meet in the garage area for continental breakfast, job selection, tools and gloves. Coffee, juice and goodies will remain
available in the garage for morning breaks. Some Saturdays we will be working only in the garage and the exterior or the
church because many Saturdays the education center is too fully occupied with rentals for us to work in the building. With
three hours to work we can accomplish significant gardening, cleaning, and minor repair work. Lots of choices to suit what
you do best.
Climate Justice at UUSF
Sunday, March 22
2015 is shaping up to be a big year for environmental justice, for California and Unitarian Universalism, and our church
(UUSF) is in the midst of both. On February 7, members of UUSF participated in the country’s largest demonstration against
fracking ever, when thousands of people gathered in Oakland urging Gov Brown to end the dangerous practice of fracturing
subterranean shale to release oil/natural gas. On February 15, for the third year in a row our congregation joined others
across the nation in Interfaith Power & Light’s postcard campaign, urging senators to support the EPA’s regulation of power
plant carbon emissions.
Looking forward to March, thanks to Rev. Buehrens, UUSF was the first congregation to commit to the denomination-wide
campaign to mobilize Unitarian Universalists to work on climate justice called Commit 2 Respond (C2R). A central part of C2R
is Climate Justice Month, which starts on March 22, World Water Day, and continues until April 22, Earth Day. Here at UUSF
the Green Committee will be kicking off Climate Justice Month with an interactive workshop on climate change, Sunday
afternoon on March 22. Not sure what you can do about global warming? Come to this workshop offered by the Sunflower
Alliance to find out!
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The election to vote for Pacific Central
District (PCD) and General Assembly (GA)
delegates
Sunday, March 22, 12:30 PM, TSK Room
The Nominating Committee has been working diligently these last few months to identify candidates for two upcoming
assemblies of the Unitarian Universalist Association (UUA); the Pacific Central District (PCD) annual assembly on April 25,
right here at our church and the General Assembly (GA) in Portland, Oregon, June 24-28. General Assembly is the annual
meeting of the UUA where officers are elected and other business of the organization is conducted as well as study/action
issues and Statements of Conscience. The PCD Assembly is similar to the GA Assembly but for our district, including an
annual meeting and educational programs.
The committee is putting forward the names of 13 candidates for PCD and 16 for GA. The election will be Sunday, March 22
and a total of eight delegates and three alternates will be elected for the PCD Assembly. The exact number of GA Delegates
to be elected will be determined in February when the annual count of our membership is turned into the UUA. The number
of GA delegates in based upon the size of the congregation.
Please review each candidate’s biography and statement then VOTE on Sunday, March 22, at 12:30 PM.
The names and biographies of those running to serve as UUSF delegates can be found on at uusf.org or at the church office.
Claiming Your Voice: A Workshop
For Women
Saturday, March 28, 9AM to 3PM, Murdock Room - $30
REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED by going to our website/ Adult Religious Education
Programs or by contacting Rev. Alyson Jacks at [email protected] or 415-776-4580
x232.
How have you held back your voice, as an artist, a writer, a public speaker, or in some
other arena? What is the source of your fear? Join me in this day-long workshop and
work toward claiming your authentic voice, claiming your power. We will write, work
in small groups, do exercises to awaken, and have an in-depth conversation about
these issues.
About Marilyn Sewell:
Marilyn Sewell is the Minister Emerita of the First Unitarian Church of Portland, OR,
where she served as Senior Minister for 17 years before her retirement 5 years ago.
During her time there, the church grew to be one of the largest in the Unitarian
Universalist denomination. Marilyn is also a writer, with 10 books in print, the latest of
which is a memoir, Raw Faith: Following the Thread, which is the back story to a prizewinning documentary film about Marilyn, “Raw Faith.” Marilyn teaches at the Attic
Institute and is on the adjunct faculty of Maitripa, a Buddhist college in Portland.
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We’re Looking for a Few Good Applicants!
Deadline: Tuesday, March 31, 5PM
If you are or know someone who is or will be attending graduate school in 2014–2015 to join the helping professions, the
Hinckley Fund Scholarship Committee wants to help ease the financial burden. According to the terms of Captain Hinckley’s
will, scholarships are awarded to worthy young people in the Bay Area seeking to become teachers, medical practitioners,
social workers, ministers, etc.
The application form can be found here and hard copies are available in the church office. All completed applications must
be in the church office no later than 5PM, March 31 to be considered.
Please contact a Hinckley board member if you have any questions. Lucy Smith, chair, Shirley Gibson and Howard Oringer
(415-776-4580).
It’s Time to Apply for an SCW Scholarship!
Deadline: Monday, April 6, 5PM
The Society for Community Work (SCW) invites UUSF members and their families to apply for undergraduate or vocational
scholarships for the 2015-16 academic year.
Every year, SCW awards scholarships, funded through its endowment, to qualified students from the Bay Area including
applicants from UUSF. This is a competitive scholarship, so your applications will be considered if received by Monday,
April 6. On-line applications are available at uusf.org. Click on the relevant application (new or renewing applicant), complete
the on-line form, and submit it along with all requested supporting materials to the indicated link. You should complete
your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) application prior to applying for an SCW scholarship to help us in our
assessment process.
For further information please contact Kathleen Moran at [email protected], 415-742-4728.
Saturday, April 25!
WALKING A FAITHFUL PATH
The PCD-UUA Board of Directors and staff are grateful to the members, friends, and staff of FUUSF for hosting this year’s
District Assembly. It’s been 15 years since we have been with you, and we are looking forward to this year’s DA! As the UUA’s
General Assembly is in Portland, OR this year, and we are expecting quite a few PCD members to “make the trek to GA, our
DA2015 is going to be a one-day event on Saturday only. DA2015 will be a day filled with worship, music, workshops, affinity
groups, a chance to see old friends and make new ones. We will also be holding our 53rd Annual Meeting to elect new
Directors to the PCD Board, and discuss other business as presented.
In order to make this a fantastic affair, we need you! If you have an hour or two to help us with hospitality / greeting, staffing
the registration table, helping the caterer with breaking down breakfast / lunch, or just provide a hand with whatever comes
up, please contact Chuck Rosene at [email protected].
We’d also like to make our event as green as possible, and so we are thinking of offering rides from the Civic Center BART
station to the church (and back again around 4:30 PM to 5PM). If you are willing to act as a shuttle driver, please contact
Chuck, as well.
Thanks again for your hospitality! Please keep a look out for the PCD Newsletter or on the PCD website (http://www.pcd-uua.
org) for more information – registration will be open by March 2.
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All Church Barbecue
and Family Overnight
Saturday March, 21 and Sunday March, 22
All Church Barbecue 6PM
Families with children overnight 6PM to 9AM
Suggested donation is $10.
Sign up on Sundays in the gallery!
Contact Nancy Buffum and/or Joe Dellert for more information.
This event is sponsored by the Family Faith Committee
Ocean Beach Artists Group Show
March 15-April 26
Reception: Sunday, March 29, 12:30 PM to 2:30 PM, King Rooms
Ocean Beach Artists include Ocean Beach neighborhood artists and friends including Margot Campbell Gross,
Nancy Buffum, Joe Dellert, Julia Wald, Rene Villa and Marta Lutz.
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Rev. Alyson Jacks
Info: Rev. Alyson Jacks, Associate Minister, 415-776-4580 x232, [email protected]
March Madness is a phrase you hear this time of year; it describes the frenzied, fast-paced college basketball championship
season. It could also describe activities unfolding at church this month. While we - the membership - may not move at the
same speed as a pumped-up college basketball player, you will notice an uptick of energy and activity in our community.
First, we kick-off our 2015-2016 Church Canvass this month. There will be a number of House Parties (I like to think of them as
Engagement parties), inspiring testimonials, and Canvass banners cheering us on. Maybe there will be member-to-member
competitions for increased pledges! Truth is we are all elite members of the UUSF team; each of us has a role to play to
ensure a win. Let’s all do our part to meet our goal, maybe surpass it. Our trophy: an overflowing sanctuary, Sunday School
classes bursting with life and energy, engaging and diverse ministries, and a well-maintained building that we – and others
in our community – call home.
Next up is a revamp of our Children and Youth Sunday School programming. Change is underfoot! Starting this September,
we’ll expand our grade specific classes to three classes a month. (We’ll continue to offer our Art Exploration Class on 4th
Sundays.) Our new playbook aims to meet the needs and wishes of our families, and provide our children and youth with the
best religious education programming possible. To succeed, we will hire 5 Lead Teachers for our K-9 classes. Lead Teachers
will play the role of coach and team captain, working with their fellow teammates to ensure a fun, safe and engaging
classroom with lessons that both inspire and challenge. We are recruiting seminary and Masters of Education students. If you
know any good candidates, please be in touch.
Along with Lead Teacher Recruitment, we’ll start our 2015-2016 Volunteer Teacher Recruitment later this month. Our goal
is 2-3 teachers per class, paired with a Lead Teacher. Watch for our RE Table in the Gallery or drop me an email (ajacks@uusf.
org).
Make your mark with a financial gift and the precious gift of your time, energy, and talents.
I’ll see you on the court (yard) for our victory lap.
Cindy Pincus
Info: Cindy Pincus, Intern Minister, 415-776-4580 x302, [email protected]
The Wilderness of Lent
We are deep into the 40 days of the Christian tradition of the Lenten Wilderness. At the top of the list of ‘What to Give Up’ are
things like chocolate, Breaking Bad binges, and more chocolate. But when we peer deeper into this tradition, the question
of what to give up has a second half. For those who practice this tradition, we are also asked, “What will you give up that
separates you from the Holy and the Sacred?” As you enter into the Wilderness of God and Spirit, what will you leave behind
at the edge of the desert, and what will you take with you on your seeking path?
This Lent, I decided to focus on the second half of the question; what was it that was keeping me from experiencing The Holy
in the wilderness of human life? The Hebrew Book of Psalms immediately came to mind as I thought of wilderness. These 150
poems were written by a people in hell; torn from their land, weeping by the banks of unfamiliar rivers, and longing for their
God and their home. There are songs of praise, of anger, of mourning, and of bewilderment. In short, everything one might
find in the desert on their quest for the Sacred. I decided to ‘give up’ the habit of not reading daily sacred scripture.
As we take up our theme of Engagement this month at UUSF, I have decided to engage with the Book of Psalms for Lent and
read four psalms a day to carry me through that literary Jewish wilderness. Will anyone join me? Have you made your own
forays into the desert? What have you brought with you and what will you leave behind?
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Dr. Mark Sumner
Info: Dr. Mark Sumner, Music Director, 415-776-4580 x252, [email protected]
Music Marchness
Bless our Troops! Come rain or shine, the choirs march through rehearsals and church services whether it be a strong
commitment to the UU Service or to our choral community or to the exercise of singing itself. I figure different days different
amounts of each. Regardless, we are blessed. Preparations are now underway to join three different choirs in song-making.
The Threshold Choir arrives Sunday, March 8 at 11AM to share song; singers from the Santa Barbara Choral Society and UC
Alumni Chorus, Berkeley come to our church on April 12 to join forces. We travel to join the Kensington UU Choir on April 18
for a choral/orchestral concert of Vivaldi, Handel and Vaughn Williams. When you get a chance, hug and thank a trooper!
Molly Johnson
Info: Molly Johnson, Youth and Young Adult Coordinator, [email protected]
Young Adult News!!!
Last month, we had a fun outing at the Exploratorium’s After
Dark event and we volunteered to serve dinner at the Winter
Shelter. Anyone 18-39 years old with an interest in Unitarian
Universalism is welcome to join the Young Adult Group. Read
on for the fun events happening this month!
March Young Adult Group Events Calendar:
Young Adult Group Planning Meeting
TUES. MARCH 10 @ 7PM - 8:30 PM Virtually on Google Hangout
This group is nothing without our members stepping up
into leadership! Meet us via videochat to participate in
planning our activities or just to find out what is happening.
All individuals ages 18-39 with an interest in our UUSF group
are welcome. RSVP by emailing Molly at youngadults@
uusf.org to receive a link. You must have a device capable
of participating in Google Hangout (computer is best) and
some kind of headphones (headset mic preferred).
UU Young Adults Hiking in the Redwoods
SAT. MARCH 14 Meet @ 10:30 AM at Fruitvale BART
The UUSF Young Adult Group and the First Unitarian Church
of Oakland Young Adult Group are going hiking at Redwood
Regional Park. All individuals ages 18-39 with a shared
interest in Unitarian Universalism are welcome to join us!
Meet us outside the entrance of Fruitvale BART near the
Powderface at 10:30 AM. There we will take AC Transit #54
to the corner of Redwood Road and Campus Drive. Then we
walk uphill about 0.7 miles to reach the Dunn Trail near the
corner of Redwood Road and Skyline Blvd. More info about
the park here: http://www.ebparks.org/parks/redwood
Wear appropriate close-toe hiking shoes and active attire.
Bring a backpack with a water bottle, sun protection, insect
repellent, YOUR LUNCH, and anything else you want for
hiking. Please RSVPby email to Molly at youngadults@uusf.
org so we know to look for you!
All Ages Game and Puzzle Night
THURS. MARCH 19 (3rd Thursdays of every month) @ 5PM 7:30 PM in the Chapel.
Please notice the earlier time this month! We’ll be building
multigenerational connections through play. Bring your
playful spirit and your favorite card games, board games,
party games, and small puzzles to share. You can also bring
your dinner if you want. Stop in at any time!
Monthly Young Adult Lunch
SUN. MARCH 22 (4th Sundays of every month) Leave
together @ 12:30 PM from Coffee Hour
Look for our colorful banner at Coffee Hour! This month, we
will be lunching with the minister, Rev. John Buehrens, at his
home. This is a great Sunday to bring a friend to church! All
individuals ages 18-39 are welcome to join us.
Ushering on the 5th Sundays
SUN. MARCH 29 @ 10AM in the vestibule outside the
sanctuary
Want to pass the collection basket? Ushering for the Sunday
service helps our congregation, offers a unique perspective
of the service, and keeps the young adult presence visible.
All individuals ages 18-39 are encouraged to volunteer by
attending the orientation at 10 AM in the vestibule outside
the sanctuary.
You can sign up for our newsletter on our group page on
the UUSF website. Please also join our facebook group:
UUSF Young Adult Group and follow us on Twitter @
UUSFyoungadults
Your questions and suggestions are always welcome so
please send me an email at [email protected]. Thank
you all for your support of the young adult community at
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UUSF!
Marc Theobald
Info: Marc Theobald, Board Treasurer, 650-359-2610, [email protected]
Did You Know?
Contributions Operating Reserve Draw
Rentals
Fundraising Fund & Grant Revenue
SCW $385,000 $130,642 $471,987 $15,150 $209,348 $31,236 $1,243,363 31%
11%
38%
1%
17%
3%
Stephanie Gowin
Info: Stephanie Gowin, Board Moderator, 415-467-2665, [email protected]
We’re halfway through our church year, but really, where are we?
That’s the question we sorted out during our February Board meeting, where we devoted quite a bit of time toward
reviewing and refining our presentation for our Strategic Planning Town Hall. If you’re reading this on or before March 1,
please be sure to attend this event after the service. The agenda covers what we’ve accomplished since the beginning of Rev.
Buehrens’ ministry, a summary of the recent Financial Summit, as well as upcoming plans, and of course there’s always time
for your comments and questions. If you happen to read this after March 1 and you missed the meeting, be sure to follow up
with one of your Board members for a re-cap.
By now you should have received the good news that Gayle Reynolds is our newest Board member. After the formalities of
appointing and voting Gayle in during our February Board meeting, we were eager to have her jump into the fray, and Gayle
was happy to oblige. If you haven’t had a chance to congratulate Gayle, it’s not too late.
This is a good time to join the Board, especially because we’re taking a keen interest in community building, which is always
an upbeat endeavor. Toward that goal, during our February meeting Stan Hartzell presented a charge for the CommUUnity
Dinners Committee, which he’ll co-chair with Liz Strand. The committee will, in part, foster community through shared meals.
Of course the Board unanimously approved this charge (how could we not?), which means new opportunities for all of us to
share companionship and food.
Other highlights of our Board meeting included the following…
The Board will increase its visibility during coffee hour, where you’ll have the chance to provide feedback about any boardrelated business. Look for details soon.
After hearing a compelling presentation by Linda Enger, the Board let the Linda and the Canvass Committee know that we’re
happy to participate in the canvass house parties. We hope to see you there!
We also continued our discussion on establishing a Committee on Ministry, as a precursor to a larger discussion next month.
To learn more about the February Board meeting, and to see the detailed reports and supporting documents, please refer to
the Board packet on our website or feel free to contact me via email.
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10th ANNUAL MEATOUT LUNCH & PROGRAM
Love Animals, Love Earth, Love Life: Go Veg!
Lauren Ornelas will speak on access to healthy
foods in communities of color and low-income
groups, in solidarity with farm workers and on the
issue of slavery in the chocolate industry. She is
active in the animal rights movement nationwide.
She is founder of the Food Empowerment Project
www.foodispower.org www.veganmexicanfood.com
Dan Brook, Ph.D., is a long-time veg eater, writer, and
activist. His web site Eco-Eating: Eating as if the Earth
Matters is a comprehensive source for all who interested in
protecting the environment and the coming climate changes.
His web page is at http://tiny.cc/ecoeat, while more info about
his publications is available via http://about.me/danbrook.
Sunday, March 15TH 12:00 – 3:30 pm
UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST CENTER
1187 Franklin Street/corner Geary Blvd., San Francisco
12:00 Register ~ 12:30 DELICIOUS VEGAN LUNCH
Organic/gluten-free/vegan cuisine with a Latin touch by El Coqui Creations
1:30 – 3:00 FEATURED SPEAKERS & EXCITING RAFFLE!
SUGGESTED DONATION for Lunch: $10.00
Students and Seniors ~ Sliding Scale ~ Wheelchair Accessible
RSVP (recommended) to [email protected] or call 415-595-7306
Sponsors:Unitarian Universalist Animal Ministry http://www.uusf.org/#!uu-animalministry-uuam/c2189 & San Francisco Vegetarian Society http://sfvs.org
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The Society for Community Work welcomes
Rev. FRED RABIDOUX
at the SCW regular third Tuesday meeting,
Tuesday, March 17
(Wear your green, it's St. Paddy's Day!)
Rev. Fred will speak on the "GUARDIAN GROUP"
which assists refugees and asylum seekers
forced to leave their countries due to threats of
imprisonment or death for their sexual
orientation.
Business Meeting at 11:15,Mixer 11:30,
Lunch Noon, followed by Program at 1:00.
Reserve by 7 p.m. Sunday, March 15.
[email protected] or call Leslie Bader
at (415) 821-1307.
Stop by our table after services for info.
$12 to $15 Sliding Scale, No one turned away
due to lack of funds.